How to Mix & Master With Digital Performer

Mix and master with Digital Performer.

Digital Performer is a computer based recording program that gives you the professional options of mixing and mastering music. Whether you're using live instruments or music loops, Digital Performer lets you control live audio effects as well as pitch automation. Not only does Digital Performer support VST plugins and linear sequencing, it also gives you the option of customizing the music interface and producing crystal-clear recordings by utilizing mastering tools.

Things You'll Need

• Digital Performer

Instructions

Mixing Songs

1. Install and open the program or download a free trial online.

2. 

   Select the on-board mixer.

   Click the "File" menu and bring up the "Mixer" option. Import the song(s) you wish to mix and master.

3. 

   Tune volume of tracks first.

   Press the "Play" button to hear the song while you mix in effects real-time. Adjust effects such as volume, pan and fade by moving the slider up and down.

4. 

   Select the "Auto Record" feature.

   Select the "Automated Record" button located above the volume of each track. Mix one track at a time by adding in additional effects like "overwrite" and "range touch."

Mastering Songs

1. 

   Click to view audio waves.

   Locate and display the full audio wave view of each track. Click the "File" menu to bring up the mixer again.

2. 

   Compress to enhace recordings.

   Select the "Compression" effect from the mixing board and apply the effect where there are music drop-outs and sound isn't as strong.

3. 

   Add limiter where sound pops.

   Apply the "Limiter" effect to places where audio is too loud or peaking into the red.

4. 

   Listen to the mix as you go.

   Experiment and add in effects such as echo, delay and reverb to tune the song to your liking. Preview your song and select the "Save" function from the "File" menu.

5. 

   Burn in MP3 format.

   Select the "File" menu and pick the "Bounce to Disk" option once you are done editing with effects. Click the MP3 "Burn to Audio CD" option if you want to have your song on CD.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't overdue compression and limiter effects or they will completely distort your song.

References

• Digital Performer FAQ